Cultivating the Future of Cardiology

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Every summer, the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation (MHIF) opens its cutting-edge labs and clinics to a select group of aspiring physicians. The Clinical Research Internship Program typically receives hundreds of applicants; 12 of those will participate in this summer’s deep dive into cardiovascular medicine, immersing themselves in day-to-day care and clinical research.

What Do Clinical Research Interns Do?

Each student intern is paired with a physician who is actively engaged in clinical care and research at Abbott Northwestern Hospital. Over 12 weeks, interns collaborate on groundbreaking cardiovascular studies, mastering data collection, analysis and case reports. Many interns have the opportunity to co-author journal articles.

However, MHIF interns aren’t limited to research. They round with physicians, observe open‑heart procedures, attend case conferences, and shadow ICU nurses and diagnostic teams. This clinical immersion offers a comprehensive view of cardiovascular patient care.

Stephanie Melby, one of MHIF’s 2025 interns, is especially excited about the program’s unique blend of research and physician shadowing, “This opportunity promises an invaluable perspective into the field of cardiology, and I am eager to be a part of it!”

Real-World Application

Field trips like touring medical device companies and exploring the University of Minnesota’s Visible Heart Lab help interns connect research to real-world innovation. At weekly Lunch and Learns, students gain candid advice from MHIF cardiologists and exposure to these physicians’ personal career journeys.

The summer intern experience ends with a poster showcase where interns present their research findings to mentors, other medical professionals, MHIF board members, family and friends. Many projects go on to be published or presented at national cardiovascular conferences—a testament to the caliber of the program’s research.

A Legacy of Excellence

Over its more than 20-year history, MHIF’s internship program has welcomed 244 students. Those interns have produced 223 national posters and presentations, and contributed 219 journal publications. Nearly 60% of these students have gone on to become practicing physicians. As these statistics show, the Clinical Research Internship Program is one more way MHIF is advancing the future of cardiovascular care.